Walter Diemer

Walter Diemer

Walter Diemer (January 8, 1904 – January 9, 1998) was an American inventor best known for his creation of bubble gum. He was an accountant at the Fleer Chewing Gum Company in Philadelphia when he invented the popular confection in 1928.

Early Life

Walter Diemer was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He attended the University of Pennsylvania where he studied accounting. After graduation, he joined the Fleer Chewing Gum Company as an accountant.

Career at Fleer

Diemer's career at Fleer began in the accounting department, but his curiosity led him to the company's lab where he began experimenting with gum recipes. His most notable achievement came in 1928 when he invented a gum that could be blown into bubbles. This gum, which he named Dubble Bubble, became an instant success and is still popular today.

Invention of Bubble Gum

While working at Fleer, Diemer stumbled upon a gum base that was less sticky and more flexible than others. He added pink dye, which was the only color available at the time, and tested the product himself. The result was a gum that could be blown into large bubbles. Fleer began mass-producing the gum, marketing it as Dubble Bubble.

Later Life and Legacy

Diemer retired from Fleer in the 1970s but continued to be involved in the gum industry. He often visited schools to share his story and demonstrate how to blow bubbles. He passed away in 1998, but his invention continues to be a beloved treat for children and adults alike.

See Also

• Chewing Gum
• Fleer
• Dubble Bubble

References

• Walter Diemer - The Man Behind Bubble Gum
• The History of Bubble Gum
• Fleer Corporation History

External Links

• Walter Diemer's Obituary in The New York Times
• The Story of Dubble Bubble